Psalm 134: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 134 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Servants of Yahweh are called to praise Him in His house during the night (v. 1). They are encouraged to lift their hands in the sanctuary as an act of worship (v. 2). The psalmist expresses a wish for Yahweh to bless them from Zion, the place associated with His presence and glory, as Creator of heaven and earth (v. 3).

Key verse

“Lift up your hands in the sanctuary. Praise Yahweh!”
Psalms 134:2 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 134:1 Call to Praise Yahweh
Psalm 134:2 Lifting Hands in the Sanctuary
Psalm 134:3 Benediction from Zion

Discussion questions

In v1, who is being called to 'praise Yahweh' and where are they standing?
What action is suggested in v2 when praising Yahweh in the sanctuary?
In v3, what does the phrase 'bless you from Zion' imply about the source of blessings?
The term 'sanctuary' in v2: how does it shape the understanding of worship in this psalm?
When have you felt moved to 'lift up your hands' in worship or prayer?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 134: Genesis 1, Psalm 135, Psalm 63.

Before next time: read Psalm 135.